Glossary
Chapter 10

Autogenic training	Stress-management technique using a form of self-suggestion, wherein an individual achieves an autohypnotic state by repeating and concentrating on feelings of heaviness and warmth in the extremities.
Biofeedback	A stress-management technique in which a person learns to reliably influence physiological responses of two kinds: (1) responses that are not ordinarily under voluntary control or (2) responses that ordinarily are easily regulated but for which regulation has broken down because of trauma or disease.
Breathing exercise	A stress-management technique wherein the individual concentrates on _breathing away_ the tension and inhaling fresh air to the entire body.
Distress	Negative stress: Unpleasant or harmful stress under which health and performance begin to deteriorate.
Endorphins	Morphine-like substances released from the pituitary gland (in the brain) during prolonged aerobic exercise; thought to induce feelings of euphoria and natural well-being.
Eustress	Positive stress: Health and performance continue to improve, even as stress increases.
Fight or flight	Physiological response of the body to stress that prepares the individual to take action by stimulating the vital defense systems.
General adaptation syndrome (GAS)	A theoretical model that explains the body_s adaptation to sustained stress; includes three stages: alarm reaction, resistance, and exhaustion/recovery.
Homeostasis	A natural state of equilibrium. The body attempts to maintain this equilibrium by constantly reacting to external forces that attempt to disrupt this fine balance.
Imagery	Mental visualization of relaxing images and scenes to induce body relaxation in times of stress or as an aid in the treatment of certain medical conditions such as cancer, hypertension, asthma, chronic pain, and obesity.
Life Experiences Survey	A questionnaire used to assess sources of stress in life.
Meditation	A stress-management technique used to gain control over one_s attention by clearing the mind and blocking out the stressor(s) responsible for the increased tension.
Progressive muscle relaxation	A stress-management technique that uses progressive contraction and relaxation of muscle groups throughout the body.
Stress	The body_s mental, emotional, and physiological response of the body to any situation that is new, threatening, frightening, or exciting.
Stressor	Stress-causing event.
Structured Interview	Assessment tool used to determine behavioral patterns that define Type A and B personalities.
Type A	Behavior pattern characteristic of a hard-driving, over_ambitious, aggressive, at times hostile, and overly competitive person.
Type B	Behavior pattern characteristic of a calm, casual, relaxed, and easy-going individual.
Type C	Behavior pattern of individuals who are just as highly stressed as the Type A but do not seem to be at higher risk for disease than the Type B.
Yoga	A school of thought in the Hindu religion that seeks to help the individual attain a higher level of spirituality and peace of mind.

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